Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges

Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges are an essential component for safe and efficient flow isolation in critical piping systems. Their combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of handling makes them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications

Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges, often known as spectacle blind spacers, are critical components widely used in pipelines for maintenance, inspection, and flow control operations. Designed to provide a temporary or permanent block in the pipeline, these flanges are ideal for applications in petrochemical plants, refineries, offshore platforms, chemical processing, and power generation units. Their robust construction, ease of installation, and ability to withstand extreme pressure and temperature conditions make them a preferred choice across various industries.

Importance and Functionality

The primary function of stainless steel paddle spacer flanges is to provide a quick, cost?effective solution for isolating a section of the pipeline. These flanges:

• Allow safe maintenance and cleaning of pipeline sections.
• Enable quick switching between “open” (spacer) and “closed” (blind) positions.
• Offer an effective way to verify flow status in critical systems.
• Prevent accidental leakage or spillage of hazardous media.

In industries where safety and process control are paramount, paddle spacers provide a reliable solution that balances operational efficiency with worker safety.

Design Standards and Dimensions

Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges are manufactured to meet various international standards, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Common standards include:

• ASME B16.48 – Line Blanks
• ANSI B16.5 / B16.47 – Pipe Flanges
• DIN and EN standards for European applications

Custom?designed paddle spacers for specific project requirements

They are available in a wide range of pressure classes (150#, 300#, 600#, 900#, 1500#, 2500#) and sizes, typically ranging from ½” to 48” or more. Thickness and handle dimensions are specified to suit the pressure and temperature ratings of the pipeline.

Materials and Grades

The selection of material is crucial for ensuring durability, corrosion resistance, and performance. Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges are available in multiple grades, each catering to specific industry needs:

Austenitic Stainless Steels:

• SS 304 / 304L – General?purpose, excellent corrosion resistance
• SS 316 / 316L – Superior resistance to chlorides and harsh environments
• SS 321 – Stabilized grade for high?temperature applications
• SS 347 – Excellent for service in strongly oxidizing environments

Martensitic Stainless Steels:

SS 410, 420, 431 – High strength and moderate corrosion resistance, used in less aggressive media

Duplex and Super Duplex Stainless Steels:

• UNS S31803 / S32205 (Duplex 2205) – Superior strength and pitting resistance
• UNS S32750 / S32760 (Super Duplex 2507) – Exceptional performance in seawater and aggressive conditions

High?Alloy Stainless Steels:

• 904L – Premium resistance to acids and pitting corrosion
• Alloy 20 – Excellent resistance to sulfuric acid environments

Other materials such as carbon steel, alloy steel, and nickel alloys are also available for specific project requirements, but stainless steel remains the most widely used due to its exceptional corrosion resistance and long service life.

Applications Across Industries

Stainless Steel Paddle Spacer Flanges are indispensable in industries where process control and safety are critical. Common applications include:

• Oil & Gas – Isolation of flow lines during maintenance, pigging operations, and hydrotesting.
• Chemical Processing – Handling corrosive fluids, ensuring safe shutdowns during plant overhauls.
• Petrochemical Refineries – Used in heat exchangers, reactors, and process units.
• Power Generation – Steam and condensate lines, cooling water systems, and boiler operations.
• Marine & Offshore – Seawater and ballast systems, ensuring quick flow isolation.
• Pharmaceuticals & Food Processing – Hygienic and corrosion?resistant flow control solutions.

Installation and Handling

• Installing a paddle spacer flange is straightforward:
• Ensure the pipeline is depressurized and safe for maintenance.
• Remove the bolts from the connecting flanges.
• Insert the paddle spacer between the flanges, ensuring correct alignment.
• Reinstall and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
• Resume operations after safety checks.
• Proper storage and handling are essential to avoid damage to sealing surfaces and maintain dimensional accuracy.